Trump calls Taiwan arms sale a 'negotiating chip' with China, casts doubt on U.S. support

Following a two-day state visit to China, President Trump stated he is undecided about approving a planned $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan, describing it as a 'very good negotiating chip' in U.S.-China dealings. His comments represent a significant departure from long-standing U.S. policy of strategic ambiguity and support for Taiwan's defense. During meetings with Xi Jinping, Trump reportedly received warnings about 'clashes and even conflicts' if Taiwan isn't 'handled properly.' Trump also warned Taiwan against formally declaring independence, raising anxieties about whether the U.S. would defend the island democracy that China claims as its own. The uncertainty undermines decades of bipartisan U.S. commitment to Taiwan's security and signals potential willingness to trade Taiwan's defense for economic concessions from Beijing. Trump made these remarks during a press availability following the Beijing summit.

"Arms sales to Taiwan are a 'very good negotiating chip' in the United States' dealings with China." — Statement made during press availability following two-day state visit to China and meetings with Xi Jinping